EP1527240B1 - Process for manufacturing interconnectable building parts and set of building parts with connecting elements - Google Patents

Abstract

An arrangement of building elements capable of a snap-fastening interconnection comprises an element, especially the tongue, consisting of a different material from the other building elements. An MDF/HDF panel, is initially milled along the longitudinal and/or transverse sides, and the resulting groove is then provided and/or foam-filled with extrudates. Finally, the free ends of the extrudates are milled to form the profile of the tongue. Alternatively, or additionally, a groove may also be milled into the extrudates.

Description

The invention relates to a method for producing interconnectable components as well as an arrangement of components with connecting elements according to the preamble of claim 2.

In particular, plate-shaped components, for example panel panels, floor panels, cladding panels, trim strips or the like are understood in particular for the wall-ceiling or floor cladding of buildings of all kinds. Such components may be single or multilayer boards or strips of wood-based or wood-based (laminates), in particular chipboard, MDF, HDF, OSB, hardboard or plywood panels, which may be coated on one or both outer surfaces , The coating, the so-called wear layer, can be done with plastic plates, solid wood, veneers made of wood or plastic or paper, etc. When floor panels decorative paper, for example, in natural wood look, world wide, which gives the impression of a solid wood panel, Since floors are under heavy use in normal use, the surface of the decor paper by a hard, especially scratch and abrasion resistant overlay of z. B. resin-impregnated alpha-cellulose paper and thus protected against scratching and denting. In particular, the invention is therefore directed to floor panels, so-called panels, which are made of wood material and have relatively hard surfaces of plastic laminates.

Arrangements of components with connecting elements according to the preamble of claim 1 are known from the prior art. The invention particularly relates to the specific type of training and Manufacture of the components and the connecting elements in order to hold the components in an interconnected state optimally in position, but to be able to solve the components from each other if necessary.

Known arrangements of components In the form of floor panels, grooves or springs, in particular those which can snap into the grooves, have on their side edges. Such panels are particularly economical to manufacture, since only the mostly relatively soft middle layer of the particular wooden panels for forming the locking elements serving as grooves and springs must be specially processed and not the relatively hard surfaces of laminates. The middle layer is also referred to as a carrier layer or core. For laminate flooring with a milled out of the middle layer spring this therefore usually consists of chipboard, MDF, HDF, hardboard, solid wood or plywood material. These materials have the disadvantage that, in particular, the springs, as already stated above, are relatively soft and can therefore break off completely or in sections. A panel with, for example, locally crushed springs can be inserted into the groove of another panel only after treatment of the pinch before laying. This results in an extra work when laying and a reduced strength of the connection of the interconnected panels.

The protruding beyond at least one side edge of the panel spring is particularly susceptible to damage, since they can strike particularly hard against obstacles because of their small cross-section and the great weight of a panel. This applies to the manufacture, transport and installation. Also prone to the groove, since the panel has a reduced wall thickness in the region of the groove. The outer walls of the groove may even be thinner than the cross section of the spring.

Damaged springs or those made of water-permeable or water-absorbing material also make the tongue and groove joint more permeable to water. Spilled water on the joint therefore penetrates more easily into the frequently liquid-absorbing middle layers (core) of the panel, which therefore swells and becomes unsightly. The moisture can also penetrate through the tongue and groove connection and hold on the underside of the panels for a long time. This moisture evades the observation or elimination and can cause the long-term typical for moisture damages, such as mold, bacteria, efflorescence, leaching.

EP 1 024 234 discloses such panels with a tongue and groove connection, wherein locking means are provided for locking on the grooves and springs. Since the grooves and springs, together with the locking means, are milled integrally from the core made of HDF or MDF, the strength properties of the grooves and springs are determined by the material properties of the core of the panel. Therefore, the core of the panel is harder, stronger, heavier and more expensive than necessary for a floor covering, for example, in view of the strength of the connecting and locking means necessary for secure connection.

US 5,295,341 discloses panels in which the fasteners are strip-like connected to the edges of the panels, so that the materials for panels and Verbindungsungsmittel- can be optimized respectively. In order to be able to connect the connecting means to the panels, hook-like anchors are formed on the connecting strips, which engage in undercuts in the panels. Such geometry with undercuts is very expensive to manufacture.

WO-A-00/20706 and WO-A-00/20705 disclose floor panels which can be interconnected via separate connection profiles by moving the longitudinal edges horizontally toward one another or by vertically lowering the longitudinal edges. The connecting means must therefore on both sides, ie with the longitudinal edges of two profiles to be connected, lock. This increases the Hersfiellungsaufwand, as the factory on a longitudinal side of a profile, the separate connection means must be attached. Otherwise, the effort for the installer on site increases, as this immediately before Assembly the connecting means must first connect on one side with a panel and later on the other side with the panel to be connected, the connecting means are therefore not firmly connected on both sides with the panel, so that the risk of unlocking doubles and the connection less rigid and firm. In addition, more processing steps per connection must be made, namely for two springs and two grooves. To make a connection usually a groove and a spring are sufficient

From the pamphlets WO 94/26999 . DE 201 19 830 U1 . EP 1024 234 A2 . WO 98/58142 . DE 861 462 . WO 98/44212 Go forth components, namely panels with such fasteners, which allows a glue-free, positive connection of the components. The publication WO 94/26999 moreover, discloses providing a groove as a connecting element comprising a metal lower lip, the remainder being made of a different material. The publication DE 201 19 830 U1 disclosed to manufacture a spring made of a different material compared to the remaining components and to connect this spring on both sides form-fitting with provided for in two components grooves.

The post-published document, which is not to be taken into account when assessing the inventive step WO 02/060691 A1 discloses form-fitting interconnectable panels, each panel has a spring which is coated with a foreign material. By this foreign material locking elements are formed, which allow the positive connection.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an improved arrangement of components with connecting means which eliminates the aforementioned night.

This object is achieved by a method according to claim 1 and by an arrangement of components according to claim 2. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims.

The invention provides an arrangement of connecting means, in particular einschnappbare connecting means, connectable components.

Characterized in that the spring is made of a different material as the respective component with which the spring is permanently connected, it is possible for both the components and the springs in terms of requirement and cost to select optimal materials independently, the manufacturing cost reduces, since only a groove and a spring, which are necessary for releasable connection, must be made.

In order to be able to produce a glueless connection between floor elements and other components, support materials known from the prior art, ie components, had to have high mechanical strengths, since hitherto the corresponding molding or power-liquid connections have been produced regularly from the support materials. Known panels are often integral with the spring or groove formed while in the invention a two-piece design is present. Therefore, it is now possible to form the middle layer of the panels particularly inexpensively or in terms of weight per unit area, for example using the materials already mentioned. On the other hand, the spring-containing connecting means can be made of solid and heavy materials, since this only slightly influences the overall weight of the arrangement of panels. The connecting means may for example consist of PVC, plastics and the like, which is harder than the core of the panels and produced on a special milling machine (eg pencil milling machine). As a result, the particularly heavy and / or stable material is only processed at the point where it is actually needed, while the core of the panel is made of lighter and cheaper material. The weight of the panels is a significant economic factor as it affects the cost of transportation and the price of the product, as well as consumer acceptance. Consequently, there is a high potential for savings in that one equips only the positive or high-viscosity part with high mechanical strength.

If at least one of the connecting means in the form of a spring made of a different material than the respective component is inextricably connected to the respective associated component, errors during assembly are avoided. For example, the connecting means can not slip or displace along the longitudinal side, and liquid which gets into the joint of two components is prevented from penetrating deeper into the component or from getting under the component and causing further damage there.

Such an insoluble compound can be achieved in particular by positive locking. Such is particularly economical manufacturable and very firm when the connecting means are brought in the liquid or soft state with the respective component in contact. The liquid bonding agent penetrates into openings and pores of the component, so that there is a connection by positive locking. Similar strength can be achieved by gluing.

The form-fit succeeds particularly effective when the still liquid or which connecting means in grooves with or without Hinterschnehlen of the component, in particular along the front or longitudinal side of a plate-shaped member is introduced. Grooves without undercuts are particularly easy and fast, for example, coming from the front over the entire length of the front page to manufacture. Grooves with undercuts are more expensive to manufacture, but keep the introduced therein fasteners particularly strong.

The inner contour of the grooves can also be shaped differently, for example by milling, breaking or inaccurate methods. This makes the machining easier, cheaper and faster and the strength of the seat increases. On very precise editing tools can therefore be dispensed with.

If the grooves, which are provided for detachable connection with the connecting means, are unequal in shape, that is to say projecting, the components can be assembled more easily. Such a projecting leg on the underside of a component can in fact serve as a guide when the components move toward each other.

If the grooves which are provided for the permanent connection with the connection means are unequal in shape, that is to say projecting, a higher load capacity of the connection means in the direction of the projecting leg results. Such a protruding leg on the underside of a component can, for example, intercept the loads occurring when entering the component.

This is achieved particularly economically because the connecting means is made of extrudate, which can be brought into contact with the component in the still soft state when leaving the extruder in order to connect to this.

Extrudates are usually molded parts produced by means of an extruder. While such moldings normally initially harden in their final form before intermingling with other components be connected, it is advantageously provided to connect them in the still soft or liquid state with the component. In this case, it is not necessary for the extruder to have a specific profile. Rather, it is important that the liquid or which extrudate is introduced into the groove of a component, and connects with this by filling. If the front side, d. h the longitudinal or transverse side of the component, in which the groove is introduced, is horizontal, the extrudate can flow down into the groove, with an excess of material accumulates on the front side, without forming a well-defined profile. This is rather the task of the subsequent processing step. An extruder in the sense of the invention can therefore also be a device from which a material which has not yet been completely hardened can escape in a controlled manner, without the extruder giving it a concrete shape. Advantageously, however, the mold is adapted to the final shape in order to remove less material during finishing.

In the context of the invention, a connection is releasable if, on the one hand, it is so strong that it can not be unintentionally released and, on the other hand, it can be released again non-destructively if necessary. In relation to floor panels, this means that laid and interconnected panels are in use, i. Entering the floor and moving loads on the floor, do not accidentally break loose. However, the connection should, if necessary, for example, in laying errors, repairs and disassembly, be easily solvable, for example, by the fact that the two components are removed from each other in the plane spanned by them or pulled apart. Supportive or alternatively is understood by a releasable locking and such, in which the individual components can be solved by twisting or tilting back in case of need.

A particularly strong and inexpensive connection succeeds when the connecting means have the ability to foam and therefore completely fill the groove (filling groove) of the component intended for filling, whereby the contact surface between the connecting means and the filling groove increased.

The introduction of the extrudate into the filling groove is therefore carried out in one operation with the floor production, which costs can be saved.

The non-detachable connection means connected to the component also has the advantage that in the finishing, for example, the milling of a groove or spring, the connecting means can not slip and already have their final position. As a result, the groove or spring is formed more accurate and more accurate. This allows the components to be connected to each other in a simpler, stronger and safer way. This is not the case when using a fully formed spring, which is then firmly connected to the component

Snapping is when a positive connection is made by elastic members which give way upon joining, e.g. the spreading groove legs, or a compressible spring, so-called snap-in connections are particularly easy and safe to produce for the user, and particularly accurate.

As long as the maximum thickness of the connecting means is smaller than the thickness of the panels, the connecting means are not perceived and do not disturb the optics. To save material, the connecting means can be produced if their maximum thickness is at the same time the maximum thickness of the springs.

If the faces of two adjacent panels in the region of the top, such as the decor or overlays, collide, the penetration of dirt and moisture in the core of the panels is difficult.

The flat lower surface of the panels has a positive effect on the appearance, is easier to produce than a contoured lower surface and absorbs impact noise, since cavities are avoided.

Coated top and bottom surfaces make the surface less sensitive to scratching, denting, moisture and provide an attractive appearance.

Grooves and springs with snap-in locking elements in the form of recesses or depressions, which extend over the entire length of the groove and the spring, allow a particularly simple and economical production. The joining or separation of the thus formed connecting means is gentle to the material, quickly and reliably, although it is ensured that the panels are held optimally in position in the connected state.

Since the locking means are already glued or connected to the factory with the panels, nothing changes when laying the panels over the laying of known tongue and groove panels. By joining the inventively designed components, a solid and stable but again releasable connection is created, which meets the stresses occurring and the components firmly connected together.

It is advantageous that the groove is worked out of the component directly, in particular milled out, whereby the production of such panels is facilitated. This applies in particular to components which have legs of the same length and can therefore be manufactured in one pass through a symmetrical milling head. The two legs of the groove are substantially the same length except for minor differences in length, which can be provided that the components are close to each other in their near-surface region and are spaced from each other in the near-bottom regions to form a small gap. This ensures a safe juxtaposition of the two tops of the panels even with certain unevenness of the ground.

The publisher must then push the elements together as before, for him no change in the product is recognizable. He benefits only from the improved material properties Such fabricated panels may also be combined with existing one-piece spring or groove milled out of the core, thereby providing some downward compatibility of the product of the invention with known products , This opens up further fields of application and the system can be used more flexibly.

The width of the groove, which increases from the inside to the outside or the thickness of the spring, which decreases toward its free end, are matched to each other, so that in interconnected components, the tongue and the spring surfaces fed, i. lie positively against each other. This keeps the components in a defined mutual position.

Essential to the detachable connection contributes that the component-near surface of the projection formed on the spring and the Nutöffnungsnahe surface of the recess formed on the groove obliquely or inclined in the direction of component or slot opening, so that a withdrawal of the spring from the groove is possible. The insertion and withdrawal is possible because at least one of the legs of the groove is elastically expandable relative to the other leg or wegbewegbar; In particular, the two legs of the groove material strength moderately formed such that an elastic bending outwards is possible, so as to allow the spring to penetrate into the groove, wherein the at least one projection formed on the spring can overcome the inner edges of the groove opening, just by this slides off the inner edges, thereby pushing apart the legs of the groove.

The locking elements provided for the positionally fixed connection of the components, which are formed by mutually adapted projections and recesses, are provided on the groove and on the spring. These locking elements may be provided in sections on the groove and the spring; However, better grip and simplified manufacture is achieved when these become Extend locking elements over the entire length of the intended grooves and springs.

An embodiment of the arrangement according to the invention is particularly advantageous, in which on both sides of the spring corresponding projections and on both groove surfaces corresponding recesses are formed, since thus a double locking effect can be achieved and thus a firm cohesion of the components is achieved.

The width of the components can be chosen arbitrarily. Components of the same width or components of different widths can be connected to each other, e.g. to achieve a certain floor design.

It is advantageous for telescoping or loosening of the components when proceeding according to the features of claim 15.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in claim 16. This cross-sectional shape of a spring with at least one projection located thereon and at least one correspondingly adapted recess in the groove allows a good sliding of the surfaces of the spring or of the projection carried by the spring on the groove surfaces or directly adjacent to the groove opening groove surfaces during insertion of the Spring in the groove.

Further advantageous embodiments of the invention will become apparent from the following description, the drawings and the claims.

The following working method preferably results for producing the arrangement of components according to the invention. First, the component, in particular an MDF / HDF plate is milled on the longitudinal and / or transverse sides and then provided in the resulting groove with extrudates. Subsequently, the free ends of the extrudates are milled out, so that they form spring profiles. Alternatively, however, a groove can also be milled from the extrudates.

It can also be made during the extrusion process already a corresponding profiling of a rapidly solidifying extrudate and thus time and material and costs are saved. The profiling can be done, for example, reshaping or cutting. In addition to the described one-piece working method, therefore, a corresponding one-part method can be realized.

The use of plastic as an extrudate is preferred because it can be milled most accurately.

The advantage of the invention to the prior art is, inter alia, that the introduction of the extrudate in one operation with the Manufacture of components can be made, the profiles have a very firm grip with the core material, the profiles can be milled much sharper and thus lockable when using plastic, the extrudates are inexpensive materials, an elastic property of the grooves or springs regardless of the material properties of Core material is given and you can do without a sealing of the connecting surfaces, as is reduced or prevented by the extrudates or the plastic, the water and moisture absorption.

Saving options with respect to material and transport of the same arise when the milling material, so the material that was taken out of the plate during milling of the grooves, is mixed with other ingredients and then injected back into the groove to turn groove and / or spring sharp-edged to mill. The wood material therefore does not have to be procured and transported. A storage of the milling waste, as well as their disposal, is eliminated.

According to the invention, it is further provided that the extrudate can also extend to the surface of one or both components. It thus forms mechanically and optically an intermediate piece along the edges of the components. It thus fulfills a dual function, namely it serves as a connecting means and moreover fulfills aesthetic, protective and stabilizing functions, wherein it is not mandatory for the purposes of the invention that the extrudate also serves as a connecting means.

As the extrudate forms the face of the components, this edge can be machined more accurately and precisely, making the fit more accurate. This prevents inadvertent release of the connection and the ingress of dirt into the connection. In addition, the joint is less visible. The edges of wood-based materials are usually in the area of the impact-prone surface particularly often with Aufstiffungen, ie upwardly facing breaks provided. Aufstiffungen arise but also when editing the edges and are insbesöndere in laid panels, along the edges in the backlight easy to see. The invention reaching to the surface Extrudate is able to avoid or cover these edges.

When the extrudate is waterproof, the component, which is usually moisture absorbent, is protected from soaking up water. Moisture is known to cause swelling, which makes the component unsightly. An otherwise usual for this reason edge impregnation is unnecessary.

The extrudate acting as an intermediate piece can be produced in a wide variety of materials, structures and colors. Such interlacings therefore form, especially when they are colored, particularly decorative elements and influence the look of precious to rustic.

The extruded intermediate pieces, also as part of the springs or grooves, can be milled as required. Thus, the edges of the elements can be profiled as desired. It can z. B. depressions and / or increases in the joints are milled. Recesses and / or elevations can hide height differences between individual surfaces of the components and / or Aufstippungen. Beispielswelse sets such a V-joint particularly rustic accents. In contrast, metal-colored intermediate pieces look classy and give the impression of intricately edged wooden planks. By first connecting the extrudate to the component and then processing the extrudate, the fit accuracy increases, the strength of the joint and water can not penetrate into the component because of the excellent marginal seal.

Fig. 1

eine MDF/HDF-Platte Im Bereich der Längs- oder Querseite im Schnitt vor dem Versehen mit Extrudat,

Fig. 2

die Platte aus Fig. 1 nach dem Versehen mit Extrudat,

Fig. 3

die Platte aus Fig. 2 nach dem Bearbeiten des mit der Platte verbundenen Extrudats,

Fig. 4

zwei erfindungsgemäß miteinander verbundene Bauteile in einer ersten Ausgestaltung,

Fig. 5

eine Detailansicht zur Erläuterung des zum Einschnappen geeigneten Profils einer Feder,

Fig. 6

das Profil einer Feder in einer asymmetrischen Ausgestaltung,

Fig. 7

zwei erfindungsgemäß miteinander verbundene Bauteile in einer zweiten Ausgestaltung, und

Fig. 8

eine MDF/HDF-Platte im Bereich der Längs- oder Querseite im Schnitt vor dem Versehen mit Extrudat mit einer anderen Ausgestaltung der Nut.

In the following the invention with reference to the drawings is explained in more detail, and that shows

Fig. 1

an MDF / HDF board In the area of the longitudinal or transverse side in section before being provided with extrudate,

Fig. 2

the plate off Fig. 1 after using extrudate,

Fig. 3

the plate off Fig. 2 after editing with the plate connected extrudates,

Fig. 4

two interconnected components according to the invention in a first embodiment,

Fig. 5

a detailed view for explaining the snap-suitable profile of a spring,

Fig. 6

the profile of a spring in an asymmetric configuration,

Fig. 7

two interconnected according to the invention components in a second embodiment, and

Fig. 8

an MDF / HDF board in the region of the longitudinal or transverse side in section before being provided with extrudate with another configuration of the groove.

Fig. 1 shows the left free end of an MDF / HDF board in the region of a longitudinal or transverse side in section. The left end face 42 of the plate 2 has a groove 5b, for example, made by milling. The inner surfaces of the groove 5b are therefore formed by the two equal-length legs 3 and 4, and the groove base eleventh

Fig. 2 shows the plate Fig. 1 after the extrudate 40 has been introduced into the groove 5b. The extrudate 14 was introduced into the groove in the liquid or soft state and fills it completely, ie, up to the groove base 11. The extrudate is firmly connected to the plate via the legs 3, 4 and the groove base, since the extrudate has penetrated into the pores of the plate or has filled out irregularities in the interior of the groove. The extrudate may also be such that it has the property of foaming. If the extrudate is particularly flowable, it should be introduced from above into the vertical groove 5b. This corresponds to a rotated 90 ° to the right Fig. 3 , On the end face 42 remains an excess of extrudate, which forms a nose 41.

In Fig. 3 is formed by suitable methods, such as milling, from the nose 41 forming excess of the extrudate 40, a spring 6, for example, the locking means 7 for connection to a correspondingly shaped groove 5a (not shown).

The in the Fig. 1 to 3 The procedure for forming a spring shown is exemplary. With the same steps, it is possible to introduce into the groove 5b extrudate and then incorporate into this extrudate an inner groove for connection with a spring. There are therefore the following possibilities: Forming only the spring of foreign material and forming the tongue and groove of foreign material.

Complementary shows Fig. 8 in that the inner contour of the groove 5b can also be shaped as desired, for example by milling, breaking or more inaccurate methods than milling. The filling 40 therefore applies particularly well to the inner contour of the groove 5b, which increases the strength of the connection.

Fig. 4 shows two interconnected plate-like components 1, 2, for example, panels, wherein in each component grooves 5a and 5b are formed. The groove 5b of the right-hand component 1 is fixedly connected to the extrudate 40 worked to the spring 6, wherein the extrudate 40 completely fills the groove 5b. In the embodiment Fig. 4 the extrudate 40 is positively connected to the interior of the groove 5b of the right panel 1, by filling the still soft extrudate. The free end 6 of the extrudate 40 has been processed in the embodiment by milling so that it forms a positive connection with the correspondingly shaped groove 5 a of the adjacent left panel 2. According to the invention, however, an unillustrated non-positive releasable connection of the spring 6 forming end of the extrudate may be provided with the panel 2. The components 1, 2 abut one another with their end faces in the near-surface area (eg floor surface) and form a gap 16 in the floor-level area.

In Fig. 4 an embodiment of the invention is shown in which each of the individual components 1, 2 is provided at its two opposite end faces or at all its four end faces with grooves 5a and 5b. The components 1, 2 are thus constructed symmetrically with respect to their schematically represented center plane M.

The formation of the grooves 5a and 5b, as well as the spring 6 of the connecting means 40 in the same manner as in connection with the Fig. 5 and 6 or described in the following description. As Fig. 4 can be seen, the mutually engaging projections 7 and recesses 8, which serve as locking elements, adapted to each other and correspond to their cross-sectional shape, the projections 7 and recesses 8 from Fig. 5 and 6 , However, it is in principle possible to choose other similar cross-sectional shapes for the locking elements 7, 8 or to choose other inclination angle of the tongue and groove surfaces with respect to the surface 13 of the components 1, 2 as shown. Essential is the elasticity of the legs 3, 4, to the engagement of the locking elements 7, 8, so the desired. Snapping, to ensure.

If technically necessary or desired, the locking elements 7, 8 can also engage when the legs 3, 4 of the left panel 1 are not formed elastically. For example, the groove 5a of the left panel 1 may be made just as well from extrudate or the like as the spring 6, i. by filling a groove with a suitable, preferably elastic material and then milling the groove geometry into the introduced into the original groove 5a material. In this case, it is not necessary that the legs 3, 4 of the panel, i. The core material, yield elastically, whereby the compound gets a better look, and dirt and water can penetrate worse in the compound.

It is also conceivable that the free end, ie the spring 6 of the extrudate 40 is provided with a gap, such that the top and the Underside of the spring 6 can be brought together by pressure from the outside, whereby also a snap-in connection with the groove 5a can be realized, that is, the locking means 8 and 7 can come into engagement.

In the Fig. 4 shown in their width shown relatively wide components 1, 2 have on one of its opposite end faces, in particular on two mutually perpendicular end faces dovetailed grooves 5a.

The Fig. 5 and 6 serve to clarify the profile of the spring 6. They are to be understood as a detail Fig. 4 , where in Fig. 6 only the free end of the spring 6 is shown.

As in Fig. 5 can be seen, the particular of wood or plastic existing components 1, 2 may be provided with coatings 23, 24 to obtain corresponding surface values or a corresponding appearance.

On the spring 6 and the spring surfaces 10 and in the groove 5a and in the groove surfaces or side surfaces 9 of the groove 5a matched locking elements 7, 8 are provided. These locking elements are formed by projections 7 and recesses 8, which cooperate with each other or can be latched. The cross-sectional shapes of the recesses 8 and associated projections 7 correspond to each other, so that the locking elements fully engage each other, d. H. positively enter a snap connection.

In the assembled state of the components 1, 2, the locking elements 7, 8 engage each other. The locking elements 7, 8 are in particular formed over the entire length of the longitudinal and / or narrow sides of the components 1, 2.

In Fig. 6 a projection 7 is formed only on the lower spring surface 10, which is received by a Vertlefung 8 in the abutting on this spring surface 10 groove surface 9. When inserting the spring 6 into the groove 5, the two legs 3.4 of the groove 5 are elastic pushed apart; Even when pulling out the spring 6 from the groove 5 is an elastic spreading of the groove legs 3, 4th

At the in Fig. 6 illustrated embodiment of the invention, a projection 7 is formed only on one side of the spring 6. The projection 7 is ausgebiidet so that the spring surface 10 from the front free end portion of the spring 6 extends flat to a bend which lies at the thickest point of the spring and in a rear short surface 17 passes, which in turn leads to a component 2 Area 31 passes. Of the recess 8 in the groove surface 9, only a portion 30 of the spring surface 10 is added; However, this portion of the spring surface is in the depression fed to the surface 18 'on; Also, the rear shorter surface 17 is full at the groove opening towards the surface 17 'of the recess 8 at.

The groove surface 10 or its portion 30 is inclined at an angle α to the surface 13 of the two components 1, 2; the rear shorter surface portion 17 is inclined at an angle β to the surface 13 of the two components 1, 2. The same applies to the two surfaces 17 'and 18' of the recess 8 in the groove leg 3. The outside of the recess 8 of the Nutschenkels 3 or nutgrundnahe area of the groove surface 9 is inclined at an angle γ to the surface 13 of the two components. Tilted at the same angle γ is that surface 10 of the spring 6 which bears no projection and fits snugly against the facing groove surface 9.

To form a defined mutual position of the locked components 1, 2, it may be expedient if the angle α to the useful or surface 13 of the longer side of the triangle 18 of the projection 7 on the spring 6 the angle or the inclination, in particular of the front area, corresponds to the spring surface 10 which extends in its front region at a distance from the groove surface 9. The locking element-free spring surface 10 rests against the groove inner surface 9 over the major part of its length, and both surfaces approach the surface or useful surface 13 of the two components 1, 2 at an angle γ as viewed from the groove base 11.

In practice, it is advantageous if the recess or the groove are provided in the groove and tongue surfaces close to the surface. It is particularly advantageous if corresponding locking elements are provided in both spring surfaces and both groove surfaces. The connection is then self-centering, which facilitates assembly and is self-locking in the end position.

One recognizes Fig. 6 in that, when the spring 6 is pushed into the groove 5, the groove legs 3, 4 are spread apart, that is to say they are removed from one another, in particular the groove-opening-like surface 25 'and the spring surface 10, in particular their region 30 slide on one another, so that the groove legs 3 widen, 4 without their damage is achieved. When pulling out the spring 6 from the groove 5, an expansion of the groove legs 3, 4 is achieved by sliding the surfaces 17 and 17 'together.

In Fig. 5 a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention is shown in which the groove 5 and the spring 6 are advantageously formed symmetrically to a plane perpendicular to the plane of the median plane M 'through the components 1, 2.

The cross section of the projection 7 or the recess 8 according to Fig. 5 is triangular, wherein the closer to the groove opening triangle sides 17, 17 'are shorter and more inclined than the closer to the groove bottom 11 located triangle sides 18, 18'. When inserting the spring 6 into the groove 5a, the longer side 18 of the projection 7 slides on the inner edge or a chamfer 25 'of the groove leg 3 formed in this region until the projection 7 has overcome this inner edge surface 25' and from the recess 8 is recorded. This causes a locking of the components by snapping.

In the advantageous embodiment according to Fig. 5 is provided that on the two opposing spring surfaces 10, in particular symmetrically located projections 7 or recesses 8 and on both adjacent groove surfaces 9 adapted to these projections 7 and recesses 8 recesses and projections are formed, or that groove 5a and spring 6 dovetailed and adapted to each other. This embodiment allows a double locking of the two components 1, 2, wherein such a lock is easily solvable by the two components 1, 2 are removed from each other in the plane spanned by them or pulled apart. The expansion of the legs 3, 4 can be supported by rotating the components against each other.

In this embodiment, the longer side of the triangle 18 and / or the surface of the projection 7 formed by this side merges with the formation of a bend 19 in the front region of the spring surface 10; the nutgrundnahe area of the groove surface 9 and this front portion of the spring surface 10 are as well as the projection 7 and the recess 8 richly against each other; In this way, a very precise connection of the components 1, 2 can be achieved and at the same time it is ensured that the end faces of the components 1, 2 abut each other under pressure or are approached to each other, so that a gap between the components 1, 2 at the effective area 13 or, a removal of the components 1, 2 is avoided in the course of their use.

The nutgrundnahe area of the groove surfaces 9 and the free end of the spring 6 near the area of the spring surfaces 10 has the same inclination angle γ. The angle α, which include the surfaces 18 of the projection or the surfaces 18 'of the recess with the surface 13 of the components 1, 2, is greater than the angle γ. At this angle α, the region of the inner edge surface 25 'close to the groove opening is also inclined to the surface 13 of the two components 1, 2.

The angle β, below which the shorter sides of the triangle 17, 17 'are inclined, is greater than the angle α and, with the surface 13 of the components 1, 2, advantageously forms an angle between 25 ° and 65 °.

For joining and loosening, it is advantageous if the nutgrundnahen triangle sides 18, 18 'about four to eight times, preferably five to seven times, as long as the nutgrundfernen triangle sides 17, 17' and if the angle between the two Triangular sides 17, 18 or 17 ', 18' 100 to 140 °, in particular 1 10 to 130 °, is,

To facilitate insertion, it is advantageous if the inner end edges of the spring 6 are provided with chamfers 12 and / or the inner end edge of the latching or Verriegelungselementfrelen groove leg 4 with a chamfer 29.

With the connection manner according to the invention, it is possible and it is intended that the components 1, 2 to be joined together lie with their lower surfaces 15 in one plane.

In principle, a plurality of projections and / or depressions can be formed on a groove or spring surface, whereby the self-locking of the connection in the end position is further increased.

Fig. 7 explains components 1, 2, in which according to the invention extrudate 40, 43 extends to the surface 13 thereof. It thus forms mechanically and optically a V-shaped joint 43, 44 between the two end faces 42 of the components along the edges of the components. The intermediate pieces 43, 44 serve as connecting means, protection and decoration. The right intermediate piece is inserted inseparably in the groove 5b and at the same time forms the spring 6, while the left intermediate piece is applied only to the edge 42 of the left component and only partially forms the groove 5a and thus partially as a connecting means 17 ', 18'dient.

Since the extrudate forms the end face of the components 1, 2, this edge can be machined more accurately and precisely.

In the following the preparation of a component according to the invention is explained using the example of a floor covering. A wood-based chipboard MDF / HDF or OSB in production-standard size, for example, 1040 mm x 2,825 mm, a short-cycle press or continuous press with decorative paper on the top and backing paper coated on the underside. After coating, the large format is divided into element size, for example, 195 mm x 1,250 mm.

The Telle thus obtained are now machined on milling machines longitudinal and transverse side with a Nutfräsung. Thereafter, the pre-milled parts arrive at an extrusion plant, where in the milled grooves, the extrudate is introduced, the extrusion system can also act immediately behind the milling machine, so that immediately behind the milling head, the extrudate can be brought into the mold.

In a final step, the panels according to the invention, which are now equipped on the front side of the longitudinal and transverse sides, again arrive at the milling installation to form the desired groove or spring shape. This step can alternatively be carried out continuously immediately behind the milling head and / or the extruder.

It is also possible to provide normal end faces without a groove with the extrudate, as a result of which an operation in the region of this end face can be dispensed with,

It is particularly economical to provide all end faces initially with a groove which is suitable for engagement of the spring. For this only one tool is needed and it can not come to the processing of a wrong side. At the end faces, which are later to carry the springs, the extrudate is now filled in the grooves. Thereafter, the extrudate is worked into feathers.

Claims (17)

1. Method for producing parts (1, 2) that can be connected to each other,wherein the parts can be detachably connected by means of connecting means (5a, 6), with a first groove (5a) and a tongue (6) being provided as connecting means, and at least the tongue (6) is non-detachably connected with the one part (2) and can be detachably connected with the other part (1), comprising the following steps:

   a) Milling out a second groove (5b) on one side of the one part (2),

   b) Introduction of an extrudate (40) in a still-soft or liquid state into the second groove (5b); and

   c) Forming a tongue (6) out of the excess of extrudate (40) protruding from the second groove (5b),
2. Arrangement comprising two parts (1, 2), in particular panels, which parts can be detachably connected by means of connecting means, the connecting means comprising a first groove (5a) and a tongue (6), and at least the tongue (6) is non-detachably connected with the one part (2) and can be detachably connected with the other part (1), wherein the tongue (6) is non-detachably connected with the one part (2) in a second groove (5b) and consists of a different material than this part (2)
   characterized in that
   the parts are produced with a method according to claim 1, wherein an extrudate (40) has been introduced into the second groove (5b) in a still-soft or liquid state, and the tongue has then been formed out of the excess of extrudate.
3. Arrangement according to claim 2, characterized in that the second groove (5b) has undercuts into which the tongue (6) is introduced non-detachably.
4. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims 2 or 3,
   characterized in that
   at least one connecting means essentially consists of plastic and/or has wood which has accumulated during the manufacture of the grooves (5a,5b).
5. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims 2, 3 or 4,
   characterized in that
   at least one connecting means essentially consists of a combination of plastic and wood.
6. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims 2, 3, 4 or 5,
   characterized in that
   at least one connecting means essentially consists of a combination of wood and starchy products.
7. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims 2 to 6,
   characterized in that
   at least one connecting means essentially consists of a combination of wood, starchy products and hydrophobing agents.
8. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims 2 to 7,
   characterized in that
   at least one connecting means essentially consists of a combination of wood, starchy products, hydrophobing agents and natural or synthetic bonding agents.
9. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims 2 to 8,
   characterized in that
   at least one connecting means essentially consists of a combination of wood and organic synthetic bonding agents.
10. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims 2 to 9,
    characterized in that
    through the connecting means (5a, 6), the parts are detachably connected by positive fit.
11. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims 2 to 10,
    characterized in that
    the legs (3, 4) of the first groove (5a) are formed to be elastically resilient and that the tongue can be introduced into the first groove.
12. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims 2 to 11,
    characterized in that
    the parts are coated at their top and/or bottom side, in particular with plastic laminates.
13. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims 2 to 12,
    characterized in that
    the parts are formed of wood, derived timber products or based on wood, e.g. panel boards, flooring boards, laminate boards, covering boards or strips.
14. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims 2 to 13,
    characterized in that
    the tongue (6) consists of a waterproof material.
15. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims 2 to 14,
    characterized in that
    the tongue (6) has a greater strength than the other material of the parts.
16. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims 2 to 15,
    characterized in that,
    in particular for a connection of the parts that is strong but detachable again, locking elements that are made to fit each other and have the shape of a depression or a recess (8) or in the shape of a protrusion (7), are formed on at least one side of the first groove and on at least one side of the tongue, preferably extending over the entire length of the first groove and the tongue, in order to hold parts (1, 2) that are connected in a joined position.
17. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims 2 to 16,
    characterized in that
    one or several of the lateral edges of at least one part are non-detachably provided with extrudate which extends up to the surface of the part which surface is visible in the installed state of the part,

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